

Despicable Me Collection
The Despicable Me franchise centers on Gru, a super-villain (who later becomes a dad and superhero); his yellow-coloured Minions; and his three orphan girls, Margo, Edith and Agnes.
Despicable Me Collection Movies: Timeline & Franchise Overview
The Despicable Me Collection franchise spans roughly 14 years, featuring 4 interconnected films that build a shared narrative universe.
From its earliest installment to the most recent release, the series has expanded its world-building while introducing new characters and story arcs. Notable entries such as Despicable Me demonstrate the franchise’s ability to maintain audience interest over time.
Franchise Quality Benchmark
Across all entries, the series holds an average audience rating of 6.9. While many long-running franchises experience declining reception, this series continues to deliver memorable cinematic moments.
Viewing Order Strategy
Most viewers prefer watching the films in release order, which reflects how audiences originally experienced the evolving story.
However, a chronological viewing order can provide deeper insight into the timeline of events within the Despicable Me Collection universe.
Timeline & Watch Order
We recommend watching the Despicable Me Collection franchise in the following order to fully experience the narrative expansion.

Despicable Me
Gru is a supervillain determined to prove he’s the greatest by stealing the Moon. To pull off his plan, he adopts three orphaned girls—Margo, Edith, and Agnes—i...

Despicable Me 2
Gru is recruited by the Anti-Villain League to help deal with a powerful new super criminal....

Despicable Me 3
Gru and his wife Lucy must stop former '80s child star Balthazar Bratt from achieving world domination....

Despicable Me 4
Gru and Lucy and their girls—Margo, Edith and Agnes—welcome a new member to the Gru family, Gru Jr., who is intent on tormenting his dad. Gru also faces a new n...
Common Questions about Despicable Me Collection
How many movies are in the Despicable Me Collection?
There are currently 4 movies in the Despicable Me Collection, starting from Despicable Me to the latest release, Despicable Me 4.
What is the best order to watch the Despicable Me Collection?
The best way to watch the Despicable Me Collection is usually in release order: starting with Despicable Me and ending with Despicable Me 4. Check our timeline for the full chronological breakdown.
Which is the highest-rated movie in the Despicable Me Collection?
According to movieMx ratings, the fans have a strong preference for Despicable Me in this franchise.